webfact

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives for a group photo at the government house before taking oath in front of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Another legal bid has been launched to remove Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office. The lawsuit accuses her of appointing Thavi Sodsong, deemed dishonest and unethical, to a cabinet position. The Khana Nitichon Cherdchutham legal activist group submitted the case to the Thailand Constitutional Court through the Election Commission, targeting Paetongtarn, the daughter of influential figure Thaksin Shinawatra. The lawsuit alleges that Thavi, concurrently serving as Prachachart leader and justice minister, abused his power by granting unlawful privileges to Thaksin. Specifically, it claims that Thavi enabled Thaksin to stay in a private ward at Police Hospital for six months instead of being confined to Bangkok Remand prison. This alleged favouritism is said to stem from Thaksin’s "critical illnesses," which some believe were feigned to avoid jail time. Thaksin, after returning from 17 years of self-imposed exile, was convicted in absentia and sentenced to eight years in prison for multiple counts of power abuse and misconduct during his premiership. This sentence was later reduced to one year by royal pardon. Despite his prison sentence, Thaksin was "detained outside of the prison" at Police Hospital for half a year and was released on parole earlier this year. The activist group's lawsuit criticises the justice minister and officials of the Corrections Department, Bangkok Remand prison, and Police Hospital for showing undue favouritism. This, they argue, undermines the principle of equal treatment and basic human rights for other convicts, who would not receive such privileges. The lawsuit highlights a recent Constitutional Court ruling which removed former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin for violating political ethics by naming Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer and convict, to his cabinet. The activist group not only seeks to remove Paetongtarn but also Thavi from their positions on allegations of dishonesty, unethical conduct, and power abuse. The lawsuit refers to findings from the Medical Council of Thailand and the National Human Rights Commission, which support claims of double standards and unethical acts in favour of Thaksin. It remains uncertain when and if the Election Commission will forward the case to the Constitutional Court, alongside other pending cases against Paetongtarn and her party. Paetongtarn, along with the executive board of the Pheu Thai Party, faces multiple lawsuits accusing them of being influenced by Thaksin to integrate his associates into the government, which contributed to Srettha’s removal from office. -- 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 7 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337540-thailand-live-saturday-7-september-2024/

New customs centre at Suvarnabhumi aims to boost Thai logistics By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Airports of Thailand Ground Aviation Services (AOTGA) has inaugurated a new Customs Service Centre at Suvarnabhumi International Airport’s Free Zone 3, designed to boost Thailand’s logistics industry. Covering over 4,872 square metres and costing 150 million baht, this centre aims to streamline various transport and warehousing services. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337512-new-customs-centre-at-suvarnabhumi-aims-to-boost-thai-logistics/

Indian tourists arrested in Pattaya for stealing camera battery Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya Tourist Police apprehended two Photo courtesy of Pattaya NewsIndian tourists on their first day in Thailand for allegedly stealing a camera battery and then strolling along Walking Street. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337504-indian-tourists-arrested-in-pattaya-for-stealing-camera-battery/

The new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) has rapidly become a popular choice among expat communities both in Thailand and abroad. Designed to cater to remote workers, individuals seeking skills-based education or medical treatment, and families, the innovative visa option is attracting significant interest. Destination Thailand Visa Gains Popularity Among Expats FILE photo for reference only. Courtesy of: Jakarta Post Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337542-destination-thailand-visa-gains-popularity-among-expats/

New travel rules: Thailand’s ETA to shake up visa-free visitors by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Thailand is tightening its borders with a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, set to launch between December this year and June 2025. This system will be mandatory for all visa-exempt foreigners entering the country by air, land, or sea. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337466-new-travel-rules-thailand’s-eta-to-shake-up-visa-free-visitors/

Thailand is tightening its borders with a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, set to launch between December this year and June 2025. This system will be mandatory for all visa-exempt foreigners entering the country by air, land, or sea. Though not technically a visa, the ETA will act as a computerised security check, similar to the ETIAS programme for Schengen countries. It’s designed to enhance security, curb illegal migration, and monitor health risks. Foreign visitors will receive email confirmation of their ETA approval, usually within 24 hours. However, the fine print is still a mystery. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to reveal exactly what documents will be required, though it’s likely travellers will need to show proof of accommodation and outbound travel, much like systems in Malaysia and Cambodia. Currently, Thailand offers a 60-day visa-exempt entry for citizens of 93 countries. This can be extended to 90 days at a local immigration office, and foreigners can use a border run to reset the clock – a loophole many use indefinitely. But with the new ETA system, it’s unclear if restrictions will be introduced to limit these back-to-back entries. The ETA is expected to be free and will be issued via the government’s e-portal, www.thaievisa.go.th. Once approved, travellers can pass through electronic immigration gates using a QR code. The system will also run checks on criminal records and passport authenticity, potentially avoiding confrontations at immigration desks, reported Pattaya Mail. ORIGINAL STORY: Aussies now need an ETA to enter Thailand Australians planning a getaway to Thailand will soon have an extra step to complete before boarding their flight. The Thai government is introducing a mandatory electronic travel authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained ahead of travel. This new system, introduced by Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is designed to enhance the screening and tracking of foreigners entering the country. “The ETA will be an important tool for screening and tracking the movement of foreigners entering Thailand.” The Thai ETA is required for travellers from nearly 100 visa-waiver countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, and most European nations. It’s a system similar to the USA’s ESTA and the upcoming travel authorisation systems in Europe, the UK, and Japan. Scheduled for a pilot launch by December this year, with a full roll-out by June 2025, ETA applications will be processed online via the official Thai e-Visa website. Unlike other countries’ ETAs, which may allow multiple entries over several years, the Thai ETA must be applied for each time a visitor plans to enter Thailand. However, it’s expected to be free of charge. Once approved, ETA holders will benefit from the convenience of automated passport gates at immigration checkpoints. This comes alongside the recent extension of stay for tourists and business travellers from visa-free countries, who can now enjoy up to 60 days in Thailand, with the possibility to extend for another 30 days upon arrival. In addition, Thailand introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), tailored for remote workers, digital nomads, and visitors attending approved activities. Priced at 10,000 baht (430 Aussie dollars), this visa allows a stay of up to five years, provided applicants can prove they have at least 500,000 baht for the duration of their stay. The DTV also covers the holder’s spouse and dependent children, offering them a five-year stay with multiple entries, extendable by another 180 days, reported Executive Traveller. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Canadian Arrested in Koh Pha Ngan for Illegal Work and Ecstasy Possession Picture courtesy: MGR Online A Canadian man has been arrested in Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani, for working illegally as a masseur and possessing ecstasy for sale. The arrest occurred on September 5 by Tourist Police and Immigration Police authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337465-canadian-arrested-in-koh-pha-ngan-for-illegal-work-and-ecstasy-possession/

Picture courtesy: MGR Online A Canadian man has been arrested in Koh Pha Ngan, Surat Thani, for working illegally as a masseur and possessing ecstasy for sale. The arrest occurred on September 5 by Tourist Police and Immigration Police authorities. The man, identified as 48-year-old Ky Uwe Jablonowski, was found working at a Thai traditional massage shop without a required work permit, which is a prohibited activity for foreigners in Thailand. During the search, officers discovered three ziplock bags containing a total of 0.15 grammes of ecstasy in his trousers. While Jablonowski admitted to possessing and using the drug, he denied any intent to sell it. However, police found conversations on his mobile phone suggesting he had been in contact with clients regarding the drug, casting doubt on his claims. As a result, Jablonowski is facing multiple charges: 1. Working Without a Work Permit: Under Section 8(1) of the Emergency Decree on Foreigners' Working Management, working without a permit or outside the scope of authorised work is illegal. Penalties range from a fine of 5,000 to 50,000 baht, deportation, and a two-year ban on reapplying for a work permit. Picture courtesy: MGR Online 2. Possession of a Category 1 Drug for Sale: Under Section 145 of the Narcotics Control Act, possession of a Category 1 drug with intent to sell carries severe penalties, including imprisonment for two to 20 years and a fine between 200,000 to 2 million baht. This incident follows other recent high-profile arrests involving foreign nationals and drug activities in Thailand. For instance, last month, an Israeli woman named Libby Rosenfeld Cohen was arrested on Koh Pha Ngan for offering ecstasy to tourists. Additionally, in Phuket, police apprehended a British drug dealer after receiving an alert from UK authorities that the suspect had fled life imprisonment and was hiding in Thailand. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Driver’s Licences Now Show Organ Donor Status Image courtesy: Facebook/สำนักงานขนส่งจังหวัดชลบุรี สาขาอำเภอหนองใหญ่ Driver’s licences in Thailand will now clearly display whether the holder is an organ donor, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) has announced. Effective from August 7, the updated design aims to raise awareness and streamline the identification of organ donors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337463-thailands-driver’s-licences-now-show-organ-donor-status/

Image courtesy: Facebook/สำนักงานขนส่งจังหวัดชลบุรี สาขาอำเภอหนองใหญ่ Driver’s licences in Thailand will now clearly display whether the holder is an organ donor, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) has announced. Effective from August 7, the updated design aims to raise awareness and streamline the identification of organ donors. The new licence design features a more prominent Red Cross emblem with the words “organ donor” visibly placed at the top right, provided the holder is a registered donor. This marks a substantial change from the previous version, which was introduced on January 29, 2021, and only included a smaller emblem without any descriptive text. Importantly, all driver’s licences issued before August 7 will remain valid until their expiration, as confirmed by the DLT. Jirut Wisanjit, the department’s director-general, explained that the change follows a memorandum of understanding signed with the Red Cross Organisation on August 9. This collaboration facilitates the process for drivers who wish to register as organ donors and ensures their donor status is indicated on their licences. Drivers who wish to become organ donors can submit their donation forms at local DLT offices to have the Red Cross emblem added to their licences. In related developments, the DLT dismissed media reports suggesting that Chinese companies are increasingly taking over struggling Thai transport businesses. They clarified that licences issued to one business cannot be transferred in the event of a takeover, addressing concerns that Thai citizens might be paid to hold shares to bypass this rule. Separately, the DLT, through its Road Safety Fund, held an auction for special vehicle registration numbers. The event, themed "Special Numbers for Special People," took place on August 31 at the DLT's Building 6, Floor 7. A total of 100 unique registration numbers were auctioned, categorized into super-premium, premium, and gold, each with different starting bid prices and patterns. This series of updates and initiatives reflects the DLT's ongoing efforts to enhance road safety, streamline administrative processes, and support the Thai transport sector. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Rainfall hits 33 provinces: Southern Thailand in deep water by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash Heavy rainfall is expected in 33 provinces today, with the eastern and Andaman coast regions of southern Thailand experiencing particularly intense downpours. Other regions will continue to see rain, while Typhoon Yagi has made landfall in Vietnam and is expected to weaken. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337461-rainfall-hits-33-provinces-southern-thailand-in-deep-water/

Heavy rainfall is expected in 33 provinces today, with the eastern and Andaman coast regions of southern Thailand experiencing particularly intense downpours. Other regions will continue to see rain, while Typhoon Yagi has made landfall in Vietnam and is expected to weaken. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasted severe weather conditions over the next 24 hours and heavy rain is predicted for the eastern and southern western coastal regions. Additionally, the northeastern, eastern, and southern eastern coastal regions will see significant rainfall in some areas. Residents in these regions should be cautious of potential hazards such as flash floods and overflowing streams from accumulated rainfall. Low-lying areas and slopes near watercourses are at particular risk, and there is also a warning for potential strong winds. This weather pattern is attributed to a relatively strong southwesterly monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. The Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand will experience strong waves, with heights reaching 2 to 3 metres, and over 3 metres during thunderstorms. In the lower Gulf of Thailand, wave heights will range from 1 to 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres during storms. Mariners in these areas should exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy conditions, while small boats in the Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand are advised to stay ashore until tomorrow. Heavy rain Typhoon Yagi is currently affecting the upper South China Sea. It is expected to move across Hainan, China, and make landfall in northern Vietnam today, September 6. Following that, it will weaken to a tropical storm and then to a tropical depression. This situation will bring heavy rain and some strong winds to the northern and upper northeastern regions of Thailand from today until tomorrow. The weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today until 6am tomorrow indicates thunderstorms in 40% of the northern region, mainly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Tak, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from 24 to 27°C at the lowest and 33 to 36°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, thunderstorms are expected in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C at the lowest and 33 to 36°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, mainly in Uthai Thani, Lopburi, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Temperatures will be between 24 to 26°C at the lowest and 34 to 35°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. In the eastern region, thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in some locations, particularly in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures will range from 24 to 27°C at the lowest and 32 to 35°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 20 to 40 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves of 2 to 3 meters and over 3 metres during thunderstorms. The southern region (eastern coast) will have thunderstorms in 40% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C at the lowest and 31 to 36°C at the highest. In areas from Surat Thani upwards, southwesterly winds will blow at 20 to 35 kilometres per hour, and the sea will have waves around 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres during thunderstorms. In areas from Nakhon Si Thammarat downwards, southwesterly winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with wave heights of 1 to 2 kilometres per hour, exceeding 2 metres during thunderstorms. The southern region (western coast) will see thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in some locations, especially in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Krabi. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C at the lowest and 30 to 32°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 20 to 40 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves of 2 to 3 metres and over 3 metres during thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its surrounding areas will experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area. Temperatures will range from 26 to 27°C at the lowest and 33 to 35°C at the highest, with southwesterly winds at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Paetongtarn Vows Policy Continuity, Tackles Digital Wallet Changes Picture courtesy: Thai Rath THAILAND - Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has committed to maintaining the policy direction set by her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, with minor adjustments, particularly concerning the digital wallet handout programme. This news comes amidst criticisms and speculations regarding her leadership and cabinet appointments. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337459-pm-paetongtarn-vows-policy-continuity-tackles-digital-wallet-changes/

THAILAND - Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has committed to maintaining the policy direction set by her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, with minor adjustments, particularly concerning the digital wallet handout programme. This news comes amidst criticisms and speculations regarding her leadership and cabinet appointments. Spending Thursday at the temporary headquarters of the Pheu Thai Party, Ms. Paetongtarn worked on finalising her inaugural policy statement, set to be announced next week. Her father, ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, made a discreet visit to the building, avoiding the press. Echoing the prior government's initiatives, Ms. Paetongtarn highlighted that most policies would remain unchanged, save for tweaks to the digital wallet scheme. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat disclosed that modifications might include distributing cash instead of digital money to some recipients. Pledging to continue investment and international trade policies, Ms. Paetongtarn assured that the core spirit of the Pheu Thai Party would lead the coalition government despite the leadership change. She also indicated willingness to incorporate suggestions from other coalition partners into the policy framework. Addressing criticisms about her new cabinet, which includes relatives of veteran politicians, Ms. Paetongtarn took a positive stance, noting that familial ties might provide additional support to her ministers. She called for public patience as she navigates her new role. “Give the prime minister some sympathy. Don’t lodge too many complaints. Sometimes, one should not attach too much importance to minor issues,” she remarked. This response came after Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, a regular petitioner, questioned her autonomy and her resignation from multiple directorships before taking office. The public's first glimpse of the new PM in action will be during her policy statement in Parliament next week, with Thursday and Friday set aside for the event, according to Government Chief Whip Wisut Chainarun. Simultaneously, Deputy Interior Minister Sabeeda Thaised dismissed allegations of nepotism following her appointment. She emphasised her readiness to take on the role, succeeding her father, Chada Thaised, who stepped down to avoid ethical scrutiny. Amid the criticisms, Sirikanya Tansakun from the opposition People's Party acknowledged the merit of some ministers, especially PM’s Office Minister Chusak Sirinil, recognising his legal expertise as well-suited for his role. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 6 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337454-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-6-september-2024/

NEWS - 06-September.mp4 The government will move ahead with plans to introduce casinos after a public hearing showed strong support to create a big entertainment complex offering gambling, Casinos and most forms of gambling are illegal here, but soccer betting, underground gaming activities, and lotteries are widespread. Cambodia, Singapore, Myanmar, and the Philippines have legalized casinos that attract many Thai customers. Fishermen in Samut Songkhram filed a lawsuit yesterday, demanding over 2.4 billion baht in compensation for damages caused by the uncontrolled spread of blackchin tilapia fish. The lawsuit claims that CPF Group failed to prevent the fish, which was imported from Ghana in 2010 for breeding research, from invading local waterways. Plans for an 11 kilometer monorail have been approved for pattaya, despite its high construction costs, the monorail is considered best suited for the city due to its minimal structural footprint. The project will likely involve A public-private partnership investment. Construction is expected to start in 2027. Nine railway projects, including the 357-kilometer second phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail system, will be submitted for cabinet approval next month. All nine projects will require an investment of 661 billion baht. Bidding for the second phase, which will link Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai, is expected later this year, with construction completed in late 2028. Around the region Filipinos turned to social media to express their outrage after Philippine government officials meant to escort fugitive ex-mayor Alice Guo back to the country to face criminal charges casually posed for photos with her while processing her deportation. One official said he asked for the picture as proof they had apprehended Guo, and did not realise she was posing for the camera. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 34C degrees celsius Bangkok: heaThunder showers 32 Pattaya: Thundershowers 30 Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 30C Hua Hin: Cloudy start, clearing up, expect some isolated showers later 31C. Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-09-06 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Doctor to Appeal After Swiss Man Acquitted in Assault Case File photo courtesy: Komchadluek Dr. Tharndao "Pai" Jandam, a well-known local physician, has signalled her intention to appeal following the Phuket Provincial Court's recent acquittal of a Swiss national accused of assaulting her. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337452-phuket-doctor-to-appeal-after-swiss-man-acquitted-in-assault-case/

Dr. Tharndao "Pai" Jandam, a well-known local physician, has signalled her intention to appeal following the Phuket Provincial Court's recent acquittal of a Swiss national accused of assaulting her. The Phuket court dismissed the charges on 3rd September, citing insufficient evidence and granting the defendant the benefit of the doubt. Despite the setback, Dr. Pai remains steadfast in her pursuit of justice. "I apologise to all the Thai people who may feel let down by this verdict. I share the same feelings of sadness and disappointment," she stated. Dr. Pai emphasised her commitment to the truth, clarifying that she has not accepted any money or bribes and is prepared to take her case to higher courts. The case has captured public attention due to the high-profile nature of both the accused and the victim. The Swiss man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was initially charged with physically assaulting Dr. Pai during an altercation that took place earlier this year. The incident, widely discussed on social media, prompted a significant public outcry, calling for a fair and transparent investigation. During the trial, the defence argued that there was a lack of substantial evidence to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt. The court agreed, resulting in the controversial dismissal of the case. However, Dr. Pai and her supporters believe that crucial aspects of the incident were overlooked and are determined to bring those to light in an appellate court. Legal experts suggest that the appeals process could be lengthy, potentially taking several months before a new hearing is scheduled. Meanwhile, Dr. Pai has garnered support from various advocacy groups and individuals who are pressing for a thorough review of the case. As this legal saga continues to unfold, the public remains keenly interested in the developments, hoping for a resolution that upholds justice and accountability. File photo courtesy: Komchadluek -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Urgent Calls for Stricter Controls on Dangerous Dogs after Fatal Attacks File photo courtesy: Pixabay Lopburi was shaken by a tragic incident on August 30th, when two American Bully dogs fatally attacked an 18-year-old boy in his own home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337444-urgent-calls-for-stricter-controls-on-dangerous-dogs-after-fatal-attacks/

Lopburi was shaken by a tragic incident on August 30th, when two American Bully dogs fatally attacked an 18-year-old boy in his own home. The dogs had been living with the victim’s elder brother, a junior policeman, for just one week. The brother, who owned the dogs since their birth, shared that his younger sibling had previously played with them, leaving the reason for the vicious attack a mystery. CCTV footage captured the harrowing moments before the attack, showing the teenager running down the stairs to escape, only to be mauled by the dogs on the ground floor. The Bullies inflicted fatal injuries, including tearing off the boy’s ears. Devastated, the family has since decided to seek new homes for the dogs. This tragedy is the latest in a string of fatal dog attacks in Thailand. Last year, two pit bulls killed a 78-year-old bedridden woman in Lampang. Similar attacks have also resulted in deaths in Udon Thani and among strangers caught by aggressive dogs in public, reported Thai PBS. Roger Lohanan, CEO and founder of the Thai Animal Guardians Association (TAGA), stressed the importance of clearly defining "dangerous dogs" and establishing control measures. According to Roger, dangerous dogs should be identified based on behaviour rather than breed, including any animals that have harmed humans or other pets or caused accidents. DogsBite.org reports that in the United States, around 1,000 people require emergency treatment for serious dog bites each month, with annual hospitalisations reaching 12,480. Over a 15-year period ending in 2019, dogs were responsible for 521 American fatalities, with pit bulls accounting for 66% of these deaths. In response, the Thai Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry plans to introduce regulations by early next year, focusing on securely containing dangerous dogs and enforcing stringent handling measures. Owners will face fines ranging from Bt10,000 to Bt40,000 for violations, aiming to ensure safety and prevent future tragedies. File photo courtesy: Pixabay -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

£230k from Jersey bank returned to Thailand after corruption probe by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Google via BBC News More than £230,000 (about 10 million baht) seized from a Jersey bank account is being returned to Thailand following a high-profile investigation spearheaded by US police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337441-£230k-from-jersey-bank-returned-to-thailand-after-corruption-probe/

More than £230,000 (about 10 million baht) seized from a Jersey bank account is being returned to Thailand following a high-profile investigation spearheaded by US police. The funds were linked to a major corruption scandal allegedly involving Gerald and Patricia Martha Green, who were found guilty of bribing former Thai Tourism Authority Governor Juthamas Siriwan and her daughter, Jittisopa. The bribes, given between 2003 and 2007, secured contracts for the Greens to run projects like the prestigious Bangkok International Film Festival. In 2009, the Greens were convicted of money laundering and bribery in the US, while the Siriwans faced their legal reckoning in Thailand for their part in the offences. Jersey’s Attorney General confirmed that a substantial sum of £236,173.81, held in a bank account owned by Siriwan, was first sent to the US before being repatriated to Thailand. Attorney General Mark Temple KC commented on the case. “The successful repatriation of the funds serves to underline the commitment of the Jersey authorities to draw upon both criminal and civil powers as a means to assist its overseas partners in the global fight against corruption.” He further noted that the recovered amount represents only a fraction of the total losses Thailand is believed to have suffered through illicit dealings, reported BBC News. In related news, a senior mechanic and the chief of a truck weigh station in Ayutthaya’s Wang Noi district has been arrested in a shocking corruption bust. Officers from the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission, alongside Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officials, swooped in this morning, catching the suspect at his home near the station. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Google via BBC News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 6 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337440-thailand-live-friday-6-september-2024/

Fraud Scandal Rocks Phuket Condo Project: Aussies Demand Justice File photo In a scandal shaking Thailand's real estate sector, two Australian men have filed a fraud complaint against Kata Beach Company, the developer behind the ill-fated Peaks Residences project in Phuket. Despite investing over 5 million baht and winning a civil court case, the pair have yet to receive any compensation, prompting calls for greater accountability and justice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337411-fraud-scandal-rocks-phuket-condo-project-aussies-demand-justice/